Get Ready for Springtime Gardening

Beginning in February, preparation for your garden should start. Things to start with include pruning any citrus trees and rose bushes, planting the cool weather vegetables and pulling those pesky weeds.

Bulbs & Flowers

It’s time to plant your summer bulbs. A great idea to see beautiful blooms throughout the summer is to stagger the planting of your bulbs. Adding spring flowers that are already in bloom is a great way to add color to your garden now. Hearty plants like pansies will last until summer. Violas and primrose, snapdragons and calendulas provide good late winter/early spring blooms.

Planting in February

Herbs such as parsley, oregano and thyme can be planted now. February is also the optimal time to plant asparagus, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, onions, peas, potatoes, radishes, turnips and rutabaga. They will be ready to harvest in spring.

Citrus Tree Care

It’s time to give your citrus and avocado trees the nitrogen and nutrients they need for their coming growth spurt. Allow fallen avocado leaves to remain under the tree as mulch to protect from avocado root rot. Remove branches that touch the ground to help prevent ants from taking over the tree.

Preparing for Your Vegetable Garden

When planning for summer vegetables like corn, cucumbers, eggplant, lima beans, okra, peppers, squash and watermelon, it is best to prepare your vegetable beds. Spread 2 inches of organic compost over the garden beds and till in the compost to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. The compost will attract earthworms and other beneficial organisms to the garden and give your plants natural nutrients that help them grow.